Yet, women still face systemic barriers, especially in male-dominated spaces. From not being taken seriously to having fewer opportunities for advancement, women are required to work harder to overcome these challenges.
Speaking with theSun, the women elaborate on their personal experiences while sharing ways to thrive despite adversity.
DJ Dora: I am a biomedical engineer by day and a DJ by night. I have been DJ-ing since 2008 and it is a big part of my life. I grew up in a musical family. My late father Rahim Hamzah was a composer and pianist, and my grandfather was a violinist (he composed songs for P.Ramlee’smovies).
Heng: I am a tattoo artist based in Kuala Lumpur. I run my own tattoo studio in SS2 and I have been working in this role full-time for six years. Becoming a tattoo artist was something natural for me, as I love art and drawing. I used to work in the fashion industry before making the switch. Looking back, I am glad I took this path, it is where my passion and creativity truly align.
I have been bartending for six years. Every shift behind the bar is a chance to express myself and connect with others through flavour and storytelling. This is what drew me into the field.
DJ Dora: I am proud I am able to balance multiple roles: as a biomedical engineer by day, a DJ by night and an athlete in between. It has not always been easy, but I have learned how to honour all sides of who I am.
Heng: I am proud that I am not just building a career from my passion, but earning the respect and support of those closest to me. When my family and friends recognise this as more than “just a hobby” and when they see the dedication behind it, that validation means everything.
Goh: Getting the chance to craft the first version of the cocktail menu at @21, our rooftop bar. It was a huge learning curve, but also something I poured my heart into. It felt incredibly meaningful to help shape the bar’s identity through drinks that tell a story and reflect both creativity and culture.
What were some barriers you had to overcome as a female creative?
People did not see me as someone who had put in the hours, studied the craft and truly earned her place behind the decks. But over time, that shifted. I learned to own my space and eventually, the respect followed.
Goh: A lot of times, people assume I am just a “pretty face” the bar uses for image, or that I do not actually have much knowledge behind the bar. It gets tiring having to constantly prove that you know your stuff, that you belong here.
DJ Dora: We can start by creating more inclusive and supportive environments. That means booking more female DJs, producers and giving them equal visibility, and making sure they feel safe and respected in every space they step into.
Heng: Progress starts with solidarity. The most crucial step is women supporting women, replacing internal competition with collaboration. We need to create a safe space to share industry challenges and have zero tolerance for undermining each other’s credibility.
Goh: It is about creating more spaces where women feel safe, seen and supported. We need more mentorship, more platforms to showcase our work and just more respect overall. The industry can only grow when there is room for different voices, perspectives and experiences. That includes women being part of the conversation, not just in the background.
DJ Dora: Trust yourself. You do not need to shrink to fit into spaces that were not built for you. Of course, there will be moments of doubt or pressure to prove yourself, but do not let that dim your fire. Surround yourself with people who uplift you, and do not be afraid to set boundaries when needed.
Stay unshakably firm in your worth, but remember, resilience does not mean going it alone. Seek mentors who have walked this path, build alliances with those who uplift you and protect your energy from those who would rather see you stumble.
Trust your instincts, back yourself and keep showing up. And above all, stay humble. Growth comes from being open, not just to praise but to feedback and change too.
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